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How much did a 1971 Vega cost?


The Chevrolet Vega, introduced in 1970 as a 1971 model, was General Motors' ambitious entry into the compact car market. Known for its sleek design and affordability, the Vega was marketed as an economical yet stylish option for American drivers. But how much did it actually cost when it first hit the market? Let’s take a closer look at the pricing and what made the Vega a standout in its time.


The Base Price of the 1971 Chevrolet Vega


When the Chevrolet Vega debuted in 1971, its base price was approximately $2,090. This price made it one of the most affordable compact cars of its era, appealing to budget-conscious buyers who wanted a modern, fuel-efficient vehicle. Adjusted for inflation, this would be roughly equivalent to about $15,000 in today’s dollars, making it a competitive option for its time.


What Did You Get for the Price?


The base model of the 1971 Vega came with a 2.3-liter inline-four aluminum engine, which was innovative for its lightweight design. While the car was basic in its standard configuration, Chevrolet offered a variety of trims and options to cater to different customer preferences. Here’s what you could expect:



  • A sleek two-door coupe design with a modern aesthetic.

  • A lightweight aluminum engine for improved fuel efficiency.

  • Optional upgrades, including a GT package with sportier styling and performance enhancements.

  • Available hatchback and wagon body styles for added versatility.


The Vega's Place in Automotive History


While the Chevrolet Vega was initially praised for its design and affordability, it faced criticism over time due to issues with engine durability and rust. Despite these challenges, the Vega remains a significant part of automotive history as an example of GM's efforts to compete in the compact car market during the 1970s.


For car enthusiasts and collectors today, the Vega is a nostalgic reminder of an era when automakers were experimenting with new technologies and designs to meet changing consumer demands. Its original price tag of $2,090 is a testament to its positioning as an accessible and economical choice for drivers of the time.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cosworth Vega worth today?


A: The average price of a Chevrolet Cosworth Vega is $20,669. Q: What years was the Chevrolet Cosworth Vega sold? A: The Chevrolet Cosworth Vega was sold for model year 1975.



How much did a VW bug cost in 1972?


The base Beetle Sedan still cost $1780 and the Sunroof Sedan increased only slightly to $1999. However, the Super Beetle now cost $2159 and the Cabriolet jumped to $2599.



How much did a Vega cost in 1973?


If you wanted the very cheapest 1973 Vega—a notchback coupe with three-on-the-floor manual and approximately zero luxury—the price tag was a mere $2087 (about $14,976 in today's money). This one has some extra-cost options, the most obvious being the four-speed manual transmission.



How much did a Cosworth Vega cost new?


Chevrolet made the Cosworth Vega ridiculously expensive—in 1975, it was the second most expensive Chevrolet you could buy in the United States, with an almost $6K price tag. This means the Cosworth Vega package made the car almost twice as expensive as a standard Vega.



How much did a 1971 VW Beetle cost new?


The base 1971 Beetles retained the torsion bar front suspension. The Sedan was reduced to $1780, the Sunroof Beetle cost $1989 and the Cabriolet increased to $2299. The new 1971 Super Beetle debuted at $1899.



How much did the 1970 Impala cost?


Typically, you can expect to pay around $13,175 for a 1970 Chevrolet Impala in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1970 Chevrolet Impala at auction over the last three years was $38,500.



Why did Vega engines fail?


But by and large the major. Reason behind the Vega not endearing itself to the American buying. Public really was what was underhood. It's 2.3 l 4- cylinder engine which was all new in the Vega.



How much horsepower does a 1971 VW Bug have?


60 HP
brake horsepower: 60 HP at 4400 rpm. Engine weight: 253 lbs.



How much was a Chevy Vega in 1970?


Chevrolet Fixes the Vega, But New Problems Arise

1971 Chevrolet Vega Specifications
ON SALESeptember 1970
PRICE$2,090
ENGINE2.3L SOHC 8-valve I-4/90 hp @ 4,800 rpm, 136 lb-ft @ 2,400 rpm (110 hp/138 lb-ft with 2-barrel carburetor)
TRANSMISSION3- or 4-speed manual, 2-speed automatic



How much did a Chevy Vega cost in 1971?


$2090
The same basic Vega that cost $2090 in 1971 carried a retail price of $3249 by the end of 1977.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.